To my knowledge, a larger thermally modifying machine costs around $250k each. Treating wood in it: one cycle’s operational cost is roughly $2.5k–3k, for 8 m³ of wood. That’s the local pricing in my area. Trying to keep it motivational here: in just 2 months, I had mine built and working. I don’t get these startup kids … anyways.

I’ll use it for furniture, building facades, jacuzzis, saunas, walls, fences, etc. A 40 cm tall and 1 m wide piece of solid wood—like what you’d use for a coffee table—would typically take two years to dry in a traditional kiln at 70°C. Yes, no typos. With this machine, it’s done in just five days.

Thermally modifying wood is essentially “cooking” it to transform its core properties and make it incredibly durable and stable—all without adding chemicals. The process heats wood to high temperatures (around 180-230°C) which fundamentally changes its structure in ways that make it perform better across the board. Here’s why that matters:

1. Durability and Rot Resistance

• Benefit: By breaking down the sugars and nutrients in the wood (what fungi and bacteria feed on), thermally modified wood becomes far more rot-resistant.
• In Practice: Perfect for outdoor and high-moisture environments, like decking or siding, since it holds up against decay even in tough weather. You’re looking at a wood that lasts.

2. Dimensional Stability

• Benefit: The wood is far less likely to shrink, swell, or warp with changes in moisture. Basically, it becomes much more stable.
• In Practice: Great for anything where you need wood to stay put over time, like flooring, paneling, or even precise furniture builds. It won’t be cracking or warping with seasonal changes.

3. Sustainability and Environmental Friendliness

• Benefit: Since the process doesn’t use chemicals, it’s totally eco-friendly and safe for indoor use.
• In Practice: This wood can actually compete with tropical hardwoods for outdoor applications, reducing the need for endangered species and supporting more sustainable forestry practices.

4. Enhanced Aesthetics

• Benefit: The wood darkens in color to a rich, uniform brown tone that can look like exotic hardwoods. It’s visually appealing and can be fine-tuned by adjusting the temperature and duration of the process.
• In Practice: This is ideal for high-end applications—luxury furniture, interiors, anywhere you want a sleek, polished look without the cost (or environmental impact) of imported woods.

5. Insect Resistance

• Benefit: The process removes what bugs love to eat, so thermally modified wood is naturally insect-resistant.
• In Practice: Perfect for outdoor furniture, fences, or building materials in areas where insects are an issue. You won’t have to worry about wood-eating pests messing with it.

6. Low Maintenance

• Benefit: The wood’s resilience means it needs less frequent maintenance.
• In Practice: Ideal for exterior cladding, facades, and decks—fewer maintenance cycles mean lower upkeep costs over time.

7. Lower Thermal Conductivity

• Benefit: Thermally modified wood doesn’t get as hot, making it more comfortable in direct sunlight.
• In Practice: Great for decking or outdoor surfaces that see a lot of sun—this wood won’t feel like it’s burning your feet in the summer.

What This Means in Practice

Thermally modified wood is a major game-changer. It’s durable, stable, and looks beautiful, all while staying completely natural. It’s versatile enough for interior and exterior projects, adds a luxury touch, and works beautifully in areas where you need something sustainable but stylish.